thisisFINLAND

Culinary pleasures across Finland

Food innovators combine Finland’s culinary tradition with an international, urban style. The focus is on local food and ecological values.

Life & society Slideshows

Western Finnish town of Pori hosts jazz and big ideas every summer

They say that all of Finland takes a break in July, since that’s the most popular month for summer holidays. This isn’t the case in Pori, a town on the west coast (see our slideshow).

Life & society Language

Let your Finnish-language animal run free

Splendiferously long words, complex grammar, inscrutable sayings – the Finnish language contains many idiosyncrasies that fascinate and challenge learners. For a light interlude, take your Finnish to new heights of animalistic self-expression.

61 letters

Longest Finnish compund word (lentokonesuihkuturbiinimoottoriapumekaanikkoaliupseerioppilas)

Source: Guinness World Records

Life & society Human rights

Helsinki Pride Parade – a party for all

On the last Saturday of June Helsinki sparkles with colours. For over ten years, that’s when people have gathered to march together at the Pride Parade to celebrate equality and human rights. (See our slideshow of the parade.)

Arts & culture Theater

Outdoor drama forms a vital part of Finnish summer

Finns are always determined to savour every second of the intense short summer – and that extends to a fondness for the summer theatre.

Life & society Education

Getting an international education in Finland

Finland offers a wide choice of international schools for temporary and permanent residents, in English and other languages including French, German, Spanish and Russian.

Arts & culture Webpick

Versatile Finnish accordionist Maria Kalaniemi puts her soul into her music

While Maria Kalaniemi has a loving, caring relation to musical tradition, she embraces diverse styles and genres.

Arts & culture Film

“I have to get me some of this”: Finnish films and TV series you should watch

More than 40 Finnish films premiered in 2018, and Netflix is discovering popular Finnish TV dramas. Our list of recommendations points you to the boldest new Finnish cinema and streaming.

Library books borrowed per person per year

Source: Finnish Public Libraries Statistics

things you should and shouldn’t know